X-Rite Color iQC-iMatch 10.9.1: The Integrated Suite for Color Excellence

X-Rite Color iQC-iMatch 10.9.1 is a comprehensive, industry-standard software suite for managing the complete color workflow—from initial formulation to final production quality control. It combines two powerful modules (iMatch for formulation and iQC for quality control) into a unified platform, enabling colorists, lab technicians, and quality managers in paints, plastics, textiles, and printing to achieve accurate, consistent, and efficient color production.

Core Function: Data-Driven Color Management
The software’s core function is to use spectrophotometric measurements (from X-Rite or other devices) and advanced color science algorithms to solve two primary challenges: creating a formula to match a target color (iMatch) and ensuring every production batch matches the approved standard (iQC).

Key Modules & Workflows:

1. iMatch: Intelligent Color Formulation & Batch Correction

  • First-Time Match (FTM) Formulation: Calculates the most cost-effective and accurate starting formula to match a given color standard, using a database of colorant properties (spectral data, strength, cost).

  • Batch Correction (Tolerance Correction): If a production batch is out of tolerance, the software analyzes the color difference and calculates the precise amounts of colorants to add to correct the batch, saving material and reducing waste.

  • Colorant Database Management: Manages extensive libraries of pigments, dyes, and bases, which is the foundation for all accurate calculations.

2. iQC: Color Quality Control & Compliance

  • Digital Standards & Tolerance Management: Stores approved color standards digitally. Allows users to set and apply pass/fail tolerances based on color difference equations (ΔE, ΔEcmc, ΔE2000).

  • Real-Time Batch Evaluation: Connects to spectrophotometers at production lines for real-time color measurement and instant pass/fail decisions against the standard.

  • Trending & Reporting: Tracks color data over time, generates SPC (Statistical Process Control) charts, and creates detailed quality reports for audits and customer documentation.

3. Workflow Integration & Efficiency

  • Instrument Integration: Works seamlessly with benchtop, portable, and on-line X-Rite spectrophotometers (e.g., Ci7x00, Ci6x, MetaVue).

  • PANTONE & Master Standards Libraries: Includes licensed libraries for globally recognized color standards like PANTONE for accurate digital targeting.